We concluded our Grecian adventures at our last stop, Milos, for 3 nights before heading back home. After a packed 4 days in Santorini, Milos was definitely down time and to reflect back on the past 2 weeks of adventures in the Cyclades.
Lovely accomodation at Venia’s Gueshouse
Our accomodation for Milos was in Pollonia at Venia’s Guesthouse (SGD 70/night). It is about a 15 min drive away from the port of Milos. Our guesthouse staff was helpful to come get us from the port and check us in when we arrived.
Streets of Pollonia
We spent the rest of the day exploring Pollonia and planning our activities for the upcoming days. We were advised that very strong northern winds were to be expected the next day. And as such, to book ourselves on the boat tour, the day after tomorrow. We were encouraged to explore the north and swim in the south as the waters would be calmer.
Walking into any travel agency or car rental shop would make you feel like a million bucks when a friendly staff greets you and dishes out ALL the information you need to conquer Milos for you. That was most definitely the case, for me at least. I have come to realise, the Greek are really friendly people and also, they are highly proud of their culture and history that they readily share information with people, especially to foreigners. Recalling back on my entire travel, I guess it was consistent all throughout the islands. Must be the Greek culture eh. I remember, in Naxos, the staff of the car rental shop was generous in helping us get around Naxos by pulling out the map and pinning down spots we must see. She even added an disclaimer, “you don’t even have to rent a car at my shop, but go enjoy Naxos” while she was at it. Wow!
Travel Tip: To explore Milos fully, a boat tour is a MUST! Only the eastern half of Milos is developed with roads suitable for driving with a car.
Having said that, our only difficulty in Milos was getting ourselves a car on such notice. Based on my previous experience in Naxos and Paros, I assumed we could just come into the island and get ourselves a basic car for a day or so. But, boy, we were wrong. Because Milos is a rather small island, not many tour and car operators exist. As such, booking it in advance would save you a bit of hassle once you arrive in the island. After nearly 10 over phone calls, we got ourselves a car for a day for 33E.
Things to do
1. Papafragas Cave/Sarakiniko
Gusty winds as we were at Papafragas Cave
2. Catacombs of Milos
The Catacombs of Milos is situated in Tripiti is a charming traditional hilltop village 5 km from Adamas, the port. A 10-15 min activity that costs 4E for the audio guide that provides fascinating insight to life on this amazing island over the centuries.
3. Ancient Theater
Just a stone’s throw away from the Catacombs, so if you’re in the vicinity, it’s worth having a look. Nothing like the theater in Athens of course, but a little history of Milos nonetheless. The Ancient Marble Theater offers great views of the Adamas bay.
4. Kilma Town
Klima is a uniquely preserved little fishing village. As there is no direct bus you must take a bus to Tripiti and then walk down (and back up) 280 stairs. Otherwise, a private car or scooter can take you as far as the road goes to within about 50 meters.
5. Fyriplaka Beach
Perfect dip to cool off the summer heat of Milos
6. Boat Tour (must!)
We paid 140E for 2 of us for a full day boat tour around Milos. A lot of time was given for snorkelling and swimming as well as friendly boat crew to take us through the sites of Milos that line the coast. As I mentioned before, the only way to explore Milos in full.
Travel Tip: Again, there aren’t many boat operators in Milos. So, if you are spending limited time on the island, you’d be better off getting yourself seats on the boat before you arrive in Milos. We were lucky, we got seats while we were there and weather was great while we set sail.
Food
1. Navagio (Meal for 2 was 74E)
Lobster and mussels for 2
2. Gialos (Meal for 2 was 73E)
Another day, another lobster
Sunset in Pollonia, on our final night in Milos
An island easily missed by tourists while choosing which islands to visit when in Greece. The barrenness of Milos and the scars of its immense amounts of quarrying and mining should not deter visitors from appreciating the natural beauties of the coast and the interesting historical sites to be found on Milos.
With that, I conclude my 18 days of travel in Greece. It was one helluva fun ride navigating our way through tzatikis, donkeys and throngs of people in the alleys of Fira. I definitely want/need to see more of you.
Thank you and efharisto.
All images belong to Solosingaporean unless otherwise credited for. Please give credit where it’s due.
solosingaporean 